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Bonnie Johnson
September 21, 2026
Media ArticleOn August,1, 2026, Chad Cotti was named interim director of Michigan State University (MSU) AgBioResearch, succeeding George Smith. Cotti, who has chaired MSU's Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics since 2023, will oversee the organization's research programs, budget, and strategic direction during the leadership transition.
Cotti said maintaining strong partnerships will remain a priority as AgBioResearch continues supporting Michigan's agriculture and natural resources sectors. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing research and serving industry stakeholders.
"I've had the opportunity to see the work of AgBioResearch over the three years I've been at MSU and come to understand that partnerships are at the center of the organization's tremendous impact," Cotti said.
Before joining MSU, Cotti held faculty and leadership positions at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and the University of Connecticut. His academic and administrative experience provides a strong foundation for leading AgBioResearch in its interim period.
Working with associate directors Kang Xia and James Averill, Cotti now leads the research arm of the nation's first land-grant university. He noted that the organization's long history of scientific innovation continues to guide its mission.
Established in 1888, AgBioResearch supports nearly 300 scientists across seven MSU colleges through funding and research infrastructure. Its work spans agriculture, natural resources, environmental science, and health-related research.
The organization collaborates with growers, industry partners, government agencies, and MSU Extension to address key challenges facing Michigan agriculture. Research priorities are shaped by stakeholder needs and focused on delivering practical, science-based solutions.
Key initiatives include Project GREEEN, the Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture (M-AAA), and the Agricultural Resiliency Program, which support research and innovation across Michigan's agricultural sector. These programs also help secure additional state and federal funding for industry-driven projects.
Looking ahead, Cotti said AgBioResearch will continue adapting to changing research funding environments while remaining focused on applied research that benefits Michigan communities.
"The heart of AgBioResearch is using science-based approaches to deliver practical solutions to the most pervasive problems affecting agriculture and natural resources," Cotti said.
Photo Credit: Michigan State University
